Van Excellence report highlights van driver shortage

Many van drivers, owners and operators fear that worsening van driver shortages could prevent their businesses operating successfully over the next year, according to Van Excellence’ annual report for 2018-19, which identifies the opportunities and challenges facing the vans business.

It found that one in five van drivers, operators or owners believes a van driver shortage could prevent their businesses operating successfully over the next year.

These fears are exacerbated by the large proportion of EU nationals currently working across the vans sector in the UK, as early indicators suggest fewer are choosing to move here in light of the UK’s decision to leave the EU and the ongoing uncertainty about their future employment prospects.

The proportion of van drivers which are EU nationals fell to 7.3% in 2017, compared with 12.9% in 2015.

“In a testament to the value it provides to the UK economy, the vans market has grown consistently since the 2008 recession, thanks in part to its versatility and flexibility,” Mark Cartwright, the FTA’s Head of Vans and Light Commercial Vehicles, said.

“While there are many opportunities for further growth – such as booming online delivery services – there are also challenges ahead which all members of the vans sector should be aware of and prepare for – most notably, the increasing shortage of van drivers.”

The full report, which is supported by Mercedes-Benz Vans UK, can be downloaded at http://www.vanexcellence.co.uk/media/van-excellence-report.html